tricepsbeginnerReviewed by Neha Kapoor, RD

Seated Dumbbell Overhead Triceps Extension

Classic vertical tricep stretch using a single heavy dumbbell held with both hands.

Recommended Sets3 Sets
Rep Range10–12 Reps
Rest Period60s Rest
Equipmentdumbbell, bench

3D Visual Form & Technique Demonstration

Biomechanically verified form execution and joint angle cues.

Official Video Tutorial · 3D Biomechanics & Form DemonstrationWatch on YouTube
How to Execute the Seated Dumbbell Overhead Triceps Extension

Sit on short-backed bench holding dumbbell overhead with both hands under top plate. Lower dumbbell behind neck by bending elbows, keeping elbows pointing forward.

  • Primary Muscle: TRICEPS
  • Secondary Synergists: Pure Isolation
  • Rest Interval: 60 seconds between sets

Seated Dumbbell Overhead Triceps Extension Anatomy Activation

Primary motor unit recruitment for triceps with secondary synergist stabilizers.

Primary (triceps)
Anterior (Front View)
Anterior Muscle Recruitment: tricepsFront anatomical silhouette highlighting triceps in orange as active agonist.
Secondary / Stabilizer View
Posterior (Back View)
Posterior Muscle Recruitment: tricepsBack anatomical silhouette highlighting triceps in orange as active agonist.
● Primary Target View
Anatomical PlaneSagittal Plane
Primary KinesiologyElbow Extension
Biomechanical VectorInferior vector driving olecranon lockout
Active Anatomy:Primary: triceps
Figure: Biomechanical muscle recruitment model for triceps. Highlighted in orange is the primary agonist motor unit; highlighted in blue are synergistic stabilizing groups (isolation mechanics).

Step-by-Step Execution Guide

1

Sit on short-backed bench holding dumbbell overhead with both hands under top plate.

2

Lower dumbbell behind neck by bending elbows, keeping elbows pointing forward.

3

Drive weight back overhead to full tricep lockout.

Common Mistakes & Form Fixes

Letting elbows flare wide out.

Dropping dumbbell too fast.

Biomechanical Safety & Injury Warning

Carefully lower dumbbell to lap at set conclusion.

Alternative Exercises & Swaps

If the equipment is occupied or you need a joint-friendly variation, substitute with these approved movements:

Rohan Varma, CSCS
Authored By
Rohan Varma, CSCSHead Strength Coach & Biomechanics Lead
Neha Kapoor, RD, MSc
Medically Reviewed By
Neha Kapoor, RD, MScHead of Sports Nutrition & Indian Diet Formulations
Last Reviewed & Verified: 2026-03-29
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